ABOUT US
Optimists Resist organized in 2017 when a small group of neighbors who believed in the power of collective action joined together to create meaningful change at the local, state and national levels.
Since its founding, Optimists Resist has added hundreds of member-volunteers representing communities across the greater Phoenix area. We are proud to be part of Indivisible National's network of grassroots organizations and to also operate separately as a Political Action Committee (PAC). Both entities work in alignment to support civic engagement, education, democratic values, and effective political action, including getting out the vote.
MISSION STATEMENT
Optimists Resist is a grassroots group of concerned and civically engaged citizens who help elect candidates and hold our elected officials accountable on issues that affect the well-being of the country. Members support the civil rights and civil liberties of all Americans and offer compassion and support to those seeking refuge. In doing so, support America's highest ideals – freedom, equality and justice.
2026 GOALS
Strengthen Civic Education and Understanding of Good Governance
Educate community members on the principles of good governance, democratic institutions, civic rights and responsibilities, and the impact of public policy on everyday life through monthly meetings, trainings, and educational materials.
Increase Voter Participation Among Targeted Constituencies
Boost voter turnout within identified demographics including other political parties by reducing participation barriers, providing accurate election and candidate information, and conducting culturally responsive outreach to voters.
Mobilize Lawful, Nonviolent Civic Action to Defend Democratic Values
Organize and support peaceful, lawful civic engagement activities—such as advocacy campaigns, protests, public forums, coalition-building, and accountability efforts—to protect democratic norms, promote transparency, and encourage ethical leadership.
Expand Voter Registration in Priority Communities
Increase voter registration and turnout in targeted geographic areas through nonpartisan registration drives and in partnership with community organizations.
OUR IMPACT
The impact of Optimists Resist is rooted in a strong volunteer force united by a shared commitment to America's highest ideals—freedom, equality, and justice for all. Together with the Optimists Resist community, our mission-driven, data-informed projects have built effective teams dedicated to phone banks, letter-writing campaigns, voter registration, nonviolent action, door-knocking, neighbor-to-neighbor outreach, and monthly community and educational events.
These efforts are strengthened by our dedicated communication, social media, and fundraising teams. Our success is further amplified through strong relationships and active collaboration with local, county, and state allies, neighborhood coalitions, and nonprofit organizations - proving that when communities unite with purpose and optimism, meaningful change is possible.
Our Work Includes:
- Growing community and coalitions
- Supporting other grassroots organizations
- Upholding our values from the neighborhood to the national level
VOLUNTEER
As a member-volunteer with Optimists Resist, you can take action that fits your time, skills and passions. From quick five-minute actions like writing postcards or making a few calls to voters or elected officials to sharing social media posts on-line, joining major in-person Get Out the Vote (GOTV) and civic actions or assisting with our monthly meetings – every effort makes an impact.
Volunteerism also includes monetary or in-kind donations for those who wish to contribute funds or supplies for mail-focused actions, phone bank and texting campaigns, meetings, and administrative costs.
Personal rewards of this work include building a community and lasting connections that work toward the shared goal of strengthening voter engagement and increasing election turnout – impacts that will benefit generations to come.
Ready to get involved?
Fill out our volunteer form to become a Member-Volunteer and receive our newsletter.
Want to take action right now?
Visit the Optimists Resist Linktree to join our most urgent Calls to Action.
Follow Us On Social Media
DONATE
Your donation supports our mission to strengthen civic engagement and voter participation in Arizona elections. Every contribution helps fund phone banks, texting and letter-writing campaigns, voter registration drives, and community events.
Join Us & Make a Difference in Arizona Voting
